Are Compression Socks Good For Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a disorder in which blood clots form in veins deep within the body. Clots can form everywhere in the body. This ailment, however, frequently affects the lower legs or thighs.
Swelling, soreness or tenderness, and skin that feels warm to the touch are all symptoms of DVT. Anyone can develop DVT. However, you are more likely to develop DVT following surgery or trauma. Obesity and smoking are also risk factors.
There is a condition known as pulmonary embolism in which a blood clot can go to the lungs and block an artery and that makes DVT a very dangerous condition. This disorder is also more likely to occur following surgery.
Because DVT can cause serious consequences, your doctor may advise you to wear DVT compression socks to minimize swelling and increase blood flow to your heart and lungs. Here's what you need to know if you're unfamiliar with how these socks function.
How Does Compression Socks work for Deep Vein Thrombosis?
While standard socks can be worn for fashion or to protect your legs, compression socks include an elastic fabric that fits snugly around the ankles, legs, and thighs. These socks are a little tighter around the ankles and a little looser around the calves and thighs.
The socks' pressure pulls fluid up the leg, allowing blood to flow easily from the legs to the heart. Compression socks promote blood flow while also reducing swelling and soreness. They are especially recommended for DVT prevention because the pressure prevents blood from pooling and clotting.
Why Are Compression Socks Effective For DVT?
Compression socks can help you avoid DVT. Compression socks have been linked to DVT prevention in hospitalized patients, according to studies on their effectiveness.
According to one study with over 1,681 persons over 19 trials, nine of which involved participants undergoing general surgery and six of which involved patients undergoing orthopedic surgery.
Only 9% of those who wore compression socks before and after surgery experienced DVT, compared to 21% of those who did not wear compression socks.
Similarly, a study that compared 15 trials discovered that wearing compression socks could reduce the incidence of DVT by up to 63% in surgical cases.
Compression socks do more than just keep blood clots at bay after surgery or trauma. Another study according to a Trusted Source says that these socks could also prevent DVT and pulmonary embolism in patients on four-hour flights. Blood clots in the legs can form as a result of extended sitting in a tight place during a lengthy journey.
Compression Sock: How To Wear Them
If you suffer a leg injury or surgery, your doctor may prescribe compression socks to wear while in the hospital or at home. These can be obtained from us easily by clicking on the link here.
These socks can be worn following a DVT diagnosis to help relieve pain and swelling. Compression socks can also be used following an acute DVT to assist avoid post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS), which can present as chronic swelling, discomfort, skin abnormalities, and ulceration on the lower extremity.
Compression socks are also be worn as a preventative measure. Put on compression socks first thing in the morning before you stand up and start moving for the best benefits.
Moving around might promote swelling, making it difficult to put on the socks. Remember that you must remove your socks before showering.
Because compression socks are tight and elastic, applying lotion to your skin before putting them on might assist the material glide up your leg. Before attempting to put on the socks, make sure the lotion has completely absorbed into your skin.
To put on a compression sock, take the top of the sock and roll it down toward the heel, then place your foot inside the sock and slowly draw the sock up over your leg.
Wear the socks throughout the day and don't take them off until bedtime. After each use, wash the socks with mild soap and air dry them. Every four to six months, replace your socks.
How To Choose The Right Compression Socks for DVT?
Compression socks come in a variety of tightness degrees, so it's critical to locate the correct amount of pressure. Pick between knee-high, high-high, or full-length socks.
If you have swelling below the knee, your doctor may recommend a knee-high, and if you have swelling above the knee, full-length socks would be recommended.
The ideal tension for DVT is between 30 and 40 mmHg. Mild (8 to 15 mmHg), moderate (15 to 20 mmHg), firm (20 to 30 mmHg), and extra firm compression are available (30 to 40 mmHg).
Compression sock sizes differ by brand, so take body measurements and then consult a brand's sizing chart to get the proper size for you.
To determine your size for knee-high socks, measure the diameter of your ankle, the width of your calf, and the length of your calf from the floor to the bend of your knee.
You'll also need to measure the widest portion of your thighs and your leg length from the floor to the bottom of your buttocks if you want thigh-high or full-length socks.
Conclusion
DVT can cause discomfort and swelling. If a blood clot spreads to your lungs, it can be a potentially fatal condition. Learn how to spot the symptoms of this ailment, especially if you've recently returned from a lengthy journey, been injured, or had surgery.
If you detect a blood clot in your legs, get medical attention. And get yourself a pair of Lasso compression socks that will help you prevent the condition of DVT and if you’re suffering from DVT, it can be your best friend.
